Michelle Obama Is Dope. These Pictures Explain Why

In 2009, Michelle Obama moved into the White House and into the hearts of Americans. Her brilliant smile and sartorial splendor caught our attention—because, yeah. She’s fly. But we attribute Michelle Obama’s staying power to her substance, intelligence and strength of character.

As part of our monthly series, His Lasting Legacy—a look back at President Barack Obama’s two terms in office—in March we’re celebrating the first lady. Michelle Obama is multidimensional. She’s not just the president’s wife; she’s also a mother, a daughter, a lawyer, a black woman and a champion of the American people. The first lady has used her platform to champion education, support for veterans and fighting childhood obesity, among other causes. And through her initiatives—Let’s Move, Joining Forces, Reach Higher and Let Girls Learn—she has galvanized celebrities and community leaders alike.